WICHITA, Kansas, July 23, 2008 – A new drug court in Sedgwick County could relieve jail overcrowding. At least that’s the hope of county commissioners who voted to give the program $650,000 on Wednesday.

Non-violent drug offenders in Sedgwick County will soon have a new option; instead of going to jail, they could get treatment, job training and even housing if they qualify for the new drug court.

"It's a big step, and we are going to be very cognizant of the fact that we are spending tax dollars from this community and we are going to spend them very wisely,” said Sedgwick County District Court Judge Joe Kisner.

On Tuesday, county commissioners approved funding for the new program, which has been used in Wichita since 1995.

"We are a little bit late in putting one here," Kisner said.

Commissioners hope the drug court has the biggest impact at the jail where overcrowding has been a major issue in recent years. But the new program should help free up beds. That’s one reason why the county manager recently recommended that commissioners hold off on the proposed jail expansion.

"Right now, we think this is the way to go to be wise with the money, to be efficient with our public safety and give people the security that they need,” said Sedgwick County Commissioner Dave Unruh.

Sheriff Gary Steed agrees that alternative programs have helped ease some of the overcrowding concerns, but he feels the jail still needs more space.

"I recognize the expense, but I'm on the other side where I see very much the need for the jail and the beds,” Steed said.

It may take a while before the jail sees any benefit from the new program since the drug court isn’t expected to begin until October 1st.